Trends Season 1, Ep 10 with much loved Colin Hastings, Expat, Sportsman and Publisher in Thailand

The Expat Extraordinaire: Colin Hastings and His Remarkable Print Publication in Thailand

Revelations. Rugby. Reigning supreme as the longest print English language Expat publication in Thailand. And a new Retail venture!

Colin Hastings, a name synonymous with expat charm and entrepreneurial spirit in the Land of Smiles is in conversation for Episode 10 of Trends. A well-known face in Thailand’s expat social scene, Colin’s remarkable achievements span the worlds of publishing, sports and food retailing. Brace yourselves for an in-depth look into the extraordinary business life and profound insights of a man who embodies the boundless horizons of possibility open to expats in Thailand.

A true publishing pioneer, Colin embarked on his journey in Thailand's magazine scene with the launch of Thailand Tatler magazine. But it was in 1999 that he etched his name into the annals of expat history by launching The Big Chilli. Now in its 24th year, this bimonthly publication stands tall as the kingdom's longest-running English language print magazine for expats and Thais. Bursting with insightful news, interviews and captivating stories spanning the realms of hospitality, dining, entrepreneurship and investigative journalism, it's a treasure trove you won't find elsewhere. Colin shares with us some of his most memorable editorial pieces and regular favourite features from the magazine, demonstrating that quality is not just an aspiration but a living testament of 24 years.

Colin's impact extends beyond the written word as he introduced the sport of Rugby to Thailand back in 1993. What began as friendly games amongst enthusiasts at Bangkok’s British Club has since burgeoned into a formidable presence, with universities now offering rugby and the Thais holding their own in international matches. His legacy on the field is a testament to the transformative power of a single individual's passion and determination.

But there's more to this expat than meets the eye. In a surprising revelation, Colin shares his newest venture - a delectable foray into the world of expat gastronomy. From his foodie HQ in Bangsaray, he tantalizes taste buds with imported favourites and locally hand-crafted delights like pork pies, sausage rolls and Aussie pies. His food business is rapidly growing, with Bangkok sales on the horizon through a strategic retail partnership in the capital.

We hope you will enjoy watching this conversation with Colin Hastings on his captivating journey through the past, present and future of magazines in Thailand. He’s a man who's left an indelible mark on the print publishing landscape.

Filmed at the majestic Montienthip room at Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok.

#TheBigChilli #publishing #Thailand